North Face Hiking Trail — Attraction in Alaska

Was on the trail today to support Let Every Woman Know Alaska, an organization dedicated to helping women who diagnosed with gynecological cancers.

The hike up is challenging, even for experienced hikers. I was able to make the over two mile and 2000 ft. of elevation gain trek in an hour and fifteen minutes…but it was tiring. If I wasn’t in a group and in a race, I would have definitely taken it slower.

The view is incredible, even on a cloudy day the mountains and Inlet dramatically pop in and out of view. The trail was muddy but not too bad. For as much as it is trafficked it is in great shape. Bring water and be ready for switchbacks and wide stair type sections that can work the strongest of knees. The race is all up, with rides offered down for free on the tram. If you are visiting and wanting exercise and a view and the fun of the tram, this is a great option.

You will pass under the ski lift and past the mid section building as you switch toward the top, don’t be fooled into thinking it is over at that first building, you still will have some hiking left after but you’ll be nearing the finish at that point.

The trail ends at the museum and gift shop. There are two restaurants and the tram (and restrooms) just up the steps and further out a trail system of the upper mountain. Check hours for everything, but know there will be ways to relax and enjoy the top once you make it there. FYI, the staff of the mountain rescue team frequently patrols all of the trails to make sure folks are safe, be sure to thank them if you...

One of my all-time favorite hikes is just over 2 miles long and climbs a little over 2000 feet in elevation. When I’m not in great shape, it takes about 2 hours (222 for my angel number besties). The best part is you get to ride the tram down instead of hiking back down and potentially injuring your knees. It is a challenging hike with several almost straight-up sections, but it’s beautiful and not too long to endure those steep parts. Plus, you get to eat at the top! Just make sure to check the deli's hours because it does close early, so give yourself...

Very fun hike. Can be done both uphill and downhill. Each has advantages. For those working for a workout, I'd recommend uphill as it's about a 2,000 foot climb and about 2.3 mile distance per my Garmin GPS watch that can be done just under an hour with a brisk walking pace. I would imaging it would take most people between an hour and 1.5 hours. Walking downhill will present a beautiful view of Girdwood below you. Lifehack: climbing up will get you a free trip downhill in...